The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has welcomed the reinstatement of the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme but stressed on the need for a stable, five-year implementation period to bolster India’s export competitiveness.“To position India as a stable and competitive export hub, the government must ensure uninterrupted RoDTEP coverage for at least five years. Frequent policy shifts hurt credibility, weaken trust, and ultimately damage India’s export competitiveness,” GTRI said.Although the RoDTEP scheme complies with World Trade Organisation (WTO) norms, GTRI expressed concern over the government’s inconsistent handling of the policy. The scheme reimburses exporters for embedded duties, taxes, and levies not covered under other incentive programs.RoDTEP benefits for certain categories were discontinued on February 5, 2025. However, the recent decision to reinstate them aims to ensure a level playing field for exporters across sectors. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry noted that this move reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance India’s position in global markets.Since its inception, the RoDTEP scheme has seen disbursements exceeding Rs. 57,976.78 crore as of March 31. For the fiscal year 2025–26, the government has allocated Rs. 18,233 crore to support 10,780 HS lines under Domestic Tariff Area exports and 10,795 HS lines under Advance Authorisation (AA), Export Oriented Units (EOUs), and Special Economic Zones (SEZs), ensuring broad sectoral coverage.Additionally, the government has launched the Trade Connect e-Platform, aimed at streamlining international trade by connecting Indian Missions abroad with Department of Commerce officials and relevant organisations to offer comprehensive export-related services.
